Mc Cormick Wetland Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Greenbelt Wetland Dam Atwell Dam
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Mc Cormick Wetland Dam, located in Rathbun Reservoir, Iowa, is a vital structure designed by NRCS for the primary purpose of creating a Fish and Wildlife Pond.
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Summary
Completed in 1999, this earth dam stands at a height of 9 feet, with a length of 3510 feet, and a storage capacity of 146 acre-feet. With a surface area of 36.1 acres and serving a drainage area of 0.19 square miles, this dam plays a crucial role in the conservation and management of water resources in the area.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Iowa DNR, Mc Cormick Wetland Dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite not being condition-rated, the dam's purpose of maintaining a fish and wildlife habitat underscores its importance in the ecological balance of the region. With a spillway width of 2 feet and uncontrolled spillway type, the dam ensures controlled water release and storage, contributing to the overall water management system in Lucas County, Iowa.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Mc Cormick Wetland Dam presents an intriguing case study of how earth dams can serve multiple purposes, from flood control to wildlife habitat preservation. With its strategic location along the TR-Chariton River and close proximity to the Rock Island District, this dam exemplifies the intersection of environmental conservation and water resource management. As a key infrastructure managed by the local government, Mc Cormick Wetland Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in mitigating climate change impacts and preserving biodiversity in the region.
Year Completed |
1999 |
Dam Length |
3510 |
Dam Height |
9 |
River Or Stream |
TR- CHARITON RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
36.1 |
Drainage Area |
0.19 |
Nid Storage |
146 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
9 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
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